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What is a NTM infection?

What is a NTM infection?

Nontuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) lung disease is a serious infection caused by bacteria that are common in the environment and can cause lung damage. They are aerosolized, which means that the bacteria can exist in water and soil particles that are in the air.

What is atypical Mycobacterium?

What is an atypical mycobacterial infection? Atypical mycobacterial infections are infections caused by a species of mycobacterium other than Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the causative bacteria of pulmonary TB and extrapulmonary TB including cutaneous TB; and Mycobacterium leprae, the cause of leprosy.

What are the symptoms of NTM?

The most common symptoms include a persistent cough, fatigue, weight loss, night sweats, and occasionally shortness of breath (dyspnea) and coughing up of blood (hemoptysis). Less often, NTM infection can cause skin or soft tissue infections or infection and inflammation of the lymph nodes (lymphadenitis).

How serious is non Tuberculosis Mycobacterium?

Nontuberculous mycobacteria are tiny germs found in soil, water, and on both tame and wild animals. They’re harmless to most people. But sometimes when these bacteria get into your body, they can cause a serious lung disease. NTM infections are becoming more common, especially among people ages 65 and older.

How do you get mycobacterium?

You may develop a nontuberculous mycobacterial infection if you drink contaminated water. Bacteria can also enter the body through a break in the skin, such as a puncture wound that gets contaminated with water or soil. Inhaling the bacteria also puts you at risk for infection.

How do you test for non Tuberculosis Mycobacterium?

Diagnosis of NTM lung disease requires the clinician to integrate clinical, radiographic, and microbiological data, but, ultimately, diagnosis can be confirmed by (1) at least two positive cultures from sputum, (2) one positive culture in the case of bronchoscopic wash or lavage, or (3) a transbronchial or other lung …